Author Archives: John Sanzone

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RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL.  I Thessalonians 5:15.  11/21/2021. #17.

1 Thessalonians 5:15 [New King James Version]

¹⁵ See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

• Evil vs. justice
  • This is a personal commandment
    •  We are not to take vengeance upon ourselves
      •  We are actually to do good to our enemies
  • Returning good for evil does not eliminate justice
    •  A proper government will punish criminals
      •  Parents are to discipline their children (this is a good intent endeavor for correction and training)
      •  Church discipline is important to protect flock
  • This does not promote a doormat Christianity
    •  Jesus scourged thieves in the Temple
      •  Acts 5 Ananias and Sapphira lost their lives for lying to the Holy Spirit
      •  I Corinthians 5 Paul encouraged severe discipline for the man who was intimate with his stepmother
• The unnatural reaction
  • Our flesh wants to avenge ourselves when we are injured or disrespected by others
    •  We feel justified in our attitudes and actions
      •  We desire an immediate response
  • Our emotions, pride, and sense of fairness/justice combine to seek an “evening of the score” or meting our deserved punishment and consequences
  • God must command us to refrain from avenging ourselves and actually returning kindness for spite
• Higher purpose living
  • Our calling is on a higher plane than seeking vengeance
    •  Matthew 5:38-48 Jesus stated that if we responded to  others as they responded to us, we do no more than what the average unsaved does
      •  There is a greater testimony in forgiving, serving those who abuse us, and seeking the good of all
  • 4 earthly authorities:
    •  Family (in charge of training children-Ephesians 6:1-4)
      •  Government (Romans 13–in charge of justice)
      •  Church leadership (I Timothy 3 – spiritual training)
      •  Employer (Ephesians 6:5–directs economic life)
  • When the 4 earthly authorities fail to intervene, one is not to take matters into own hands
    •  Romans 12:17-21 only God has the authority and wisdom to mete out proper judgment
      •  Our calling is to righteousness, returning good for evil (Romans 12:20-21 overcoming good with evil)
  • Righteousness is proactive and immaterial of feelings
    •  Someone takes your coat, give him your cloak as well
      •  Love those who spitefully use you
      •  Give to those who ask of you without expecting return (balanced with II Thessalonians 3–man to work)
  • Righteousness has the purpose of demonstrating goodness to a lost
    •  Philippians 4:5-7 like peace, such active live is of a supernatural origin
      •  To love those who hate us mimics Christ
  • Examples of returning good for evil:
    •  Jesus forgives his enemies from the cross
      •  Stephen forgives his executioners at his stoning
      •  Jesus heals the ear of Malchus, the High Priest’s servant, after Peter had cut it off
  • Application of this principle is very practical
    •  If someone compels you to go one mile, go with him two (voluntary investment in an abuser releases bitterness and signals that you refuse to be an enemy of your abuser)
      •  I Corinthians 6 giving up your right to sue for damages
  • By doing good to our enemies we give place for God’s wrath and allow for natural consequences (Galatians 6:7-9)
    •  If we trust the Lord with our salvation, we can trust him with justice
      •  The process of turning abuse over to the Lord is an act of faith and trust
  • By investing in the lives of our enemies, we allow God to bring circumstances into their lives that give opportunity for them to turn to us for answers (I Peter 3:15)
    •  We are not called to avenge ourselves, but rather to minister to others in the name of the Lord
      •  We must learn to deal properly with our feelings of violation, rage, vengeance, and entitlement

Key verse:  Matthew 5:38-48³⁸ “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ ³⁹ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. ⁴⁰ If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. ⁴¹ And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. ⁴² Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. ⁴³ “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, ⁴⁵ that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ⁴⁶ For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? ⁴⁷ And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? ⁴⁸ Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

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THE HEISENBERG PRINCIPLE.  II Samuel 19:24-30.  Nov 21, 2021.  #46.

2 Samuel 19:24-30 [New King James Version]

²⁴ Now Mephibosheth the son of Saul came down to meet the king. And he had not cared for his feet, nor trimmed his mustache, nor washed his clothes, from the day the king departed until the day he returned in peace. ²⁵ So it was, when he had come to Jerusalem to meet the king, that the king said to him, “Why did you not go with me, Mephibosheth?” ²⁶ And he answered, “My lord, O king, my servant deceived me. For your servant said, ‘I will saddle a donkey for myself, that I may ride on it and go to the king,’ because your servant is lame. ²⁷ And he has slandered your servant to my lord the king, but my lord the king is like the angel of God. Therefore do what is good in your eyes. ²⁸ For all my father’s house were but dead men before my lord the king. Yet you set your servant among those who eat at your own table. Therefore what right have I still to [a]cry out anymore to the king?” ²⁹ So the king said to him, “Why do you speak anymore of your matters? I have said, ‘You and Ziba divide the land.’ ” ³⁰ Then Mephibosheth said to the king, “Rather, let him take it all, inasmuch as my lord the king has come back in peace to his own house.”

• Missing in action
  • When David fled Jerusalem, Ziba went with him, but Ziba’s master, Mephibosheth, did not go
    •  Mephibosheth was Jonathan’s son, who was lame due to his nursemaid dropping him
      •  Since Mephibosheth was from Saul’s house, it was important that he show open support for David
  • When Ziba was asked why Mephibosheth did not come, Ziba stated that Mephibosheth was hoping that there would be a stalemate between David and Absalom and then the people would put him on his grandfather’s throne
    •  David had placed Mephibosheth at his own table as a kindness to Jonathan
      •  David then gives all of Mephibosheth’s land to Ziba
• A ride on a donkey
  • As David enters the road to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth comes down to greet him
    •  Mephibosheth has not bathed or groomed since David left (quite a sight and odor)
      •  Mephibosheth shows great contrition and joy that David had returned
  • David asked Mephibosheth why he did not go with him
    •  David already has Ziba’s story
      •  David knew Mephibosheth’s timid and fearful nature (he was not a man to lead troops or rally followers)
  • The man that stood before David was the same skittish man that he remembered him to be
  • Mephibosheth tells a different story than Ziba
    •  Ziba was to go saddle a donkey for Mephibosheth and then take him to David
      •  Instead of preparing a donkey for Mephibosheth Ziba simply left him behind
• The uncertainty principle
  • David is suspicious of both stories
    •  It is obvious that Ziba had lied about Mephibosheth’s intent–here was no aspirant to the throne
      •  However, if Mephibosheth could come down on his own to meet David, he could have come on his own to follow David
  • David decides to divide the land between Mephibosheth and Ziba since he is uncertain of the truth
  • Many times we have to make decisions based upon incomplete information
    •  Most of the time, we do not have all the facts
      •  Unless God gives clear direction, we decide based upon the best information at hand
  • 3 areas of caution
    •  Should avoid making snap decisions (not everything is as it appears to be)
      •  We are guilty of injustice if we should have known more of the facts but just did not bother to search them out
      •  Unless not possible, take the time to make sure you are deciding correctly (no haste)
  • Mephibosheth gives us a clue as to what really happened
    •  Mephibosheth is just glad to be alive (David could have wiped out all of Saul’s house)
      •  Mephibosheth offers to let Ziba have all the land (just being at the king’s table was enough)
      •  From his reaction, Mephibosheth was probably merely afraid
        •  He hunkered down until he found out which way the war went
        •  If he were with David when Absalom won, he would have been killed
        •  If he stayed in Jer., David might kill him
      •  Mephibosheth hid until the fighting stopped

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THE ALWAYS DO LIST.  I Thessalonians 5:16-18.  11/14/2021.  #16.

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 [New King James Version]

¹⁶ Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

• Joy beyond the darkness
  • Paul gives 3 commandments always to obey: always rejoice, always pray, and always give thanks
  • The always part is a problem for most of us – we don’t  feel joyful all the time or are praying or are thankful
    •  Rejoicing, praying, and gratitude are not states of mind or emotional reactions
      •  Joy is a response to a deeper relationship that transcends the difficulties of life
  • Joy is often mixed up with happiness
    •  Happiness is tied to blessing in the Scriptures
      •  Happiness is a response to good circumstances, but can be a response to realizing the blessings of God in his promises (The Beatitudes)
      •  Joy deals with eternal peace given by Lord
  • Rejoicing, then, is tied to our relationship with the Lord
    •  John 15:11 Jesus gives us a joy that remains and cannot be taken away (15:1-8 abiding in Him)
      •  Hebrews 12:2 for the joy that was set before him (the redemption of many), Jesus endured the cross, despising the shame and now is enthroned
      •  Philippians 4:4 Paul commands continual rejoicing
      •  John 16:22 no one can take our joy away
      •  Romans 14:17 the kingdom of God is peace and joy
      •  Philippians 4:1 those we lead to Christ = our joy + crown
      •  James 1:2 be joyful for the trials that strengthen us
  • Internal joy exists for believers even when grieving, in pain, or suffering trials
    •  Paul was at times grieved, in pain, under persecution, angry, and anxious, but he still rejoiced
      •  The Lord was in anguish in the Garden of Gethsemanes but he rejoiced in obeying the Father’s will
  • Rejoicing was a great trait of persecuted believers in their trials and martyrdom (Stephen, Polycarp, Jon Hus, Amy Carmichael, Jim Elliot, David Livingstone, Hudson Taylor…)
• Continual prayer
  • We think of prayer as a formal time of communicating with God (set time and pattern)
  • Pray without ceasing does not me long durations of formal prayer (Matthew 6:7)
    •  There’re times for long prayer sessions (Luke 6:12)
      •  Prayer should be persistent and fervent (James 5)
  • Praying without ceasing goes beyond formal prayer
    •  While we are going about our daily tasks, we are in constant communication with God (a moment by moment dialogue)
      •  Prayer is not always formal; it can be conversational and ongoing (Hebrews 4:14-16)
  • If the only praying we do is scheduled times dedicated to the activity, then we are mostly out of touch with the Lord
    •  No one schedules only dedicated times to talk to spouse or children if home life is right
      •  God wants more of us than 2 or 3 times a day
• Thankful in all things
  • We are to be thankful in, not for all things
    •  Romans 8:28 everything brought into our lives that are not from our own choices (Gal. 6:7-10), are for our own benefit (II Corinthians 12:1-10)
      •  I Peter 4:12-19 – there is an identity with Christ in his suffering for his glory and testimony
  • We must trust that God has a reason for our trials
    •  Joy is in knowing that God is working through the trials for his glory and our reward
      •  Even when we do not understand the purpose of our grief and pain, we rejoice in his holy purpose
  • The practice of rejoicing, praying, and gratitude fortifies us

Key Verse: 1 Peter 4:12-19¹² Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; ¹³ but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. ¹⁴ If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. ¹⁵ But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. ¹⁶ Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this [d]matter. ¹⁷ For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? ¹⁸ Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” ¹⁹ Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.

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DAVID and SHIMEI.  II Samuel 19:18-23.  11/14/2021.  #45.

¹⁸ Then a ferryboat went across to carry over the king’s household, and to do what he thought good. 

Now Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king when he had crossed the Jordan. ¹⁹ Then he said to the king, “Do not let my lord impute iniquity to me, or remember what wrong your servant did on the day that my lord the king left Jerusalem, that the king should take it to heart. ²⁰ For I, your servant, know that I have sinned.  Therefore here I am, the first to come today of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.” ²¹ But Abishai the son of Zeruiah answered and said, “Shall not Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the Lord’s anointed?” ²² And David said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah, that you should be adversaries to me today? Shall any man be put to death today in Israel?  For do I not know that today I am king over Israel?” ²³ Therefore the king said to Shimei, “You shall not die.” And the king swore to him.

• Shimei grovels
  • Shimei had cursed David when he fled Jerusalem
    •  David’s victory puts him in a precarious spot
    •  Shimei would have done well to stay quiet
  • Shimei tries to make amends by greeting David
    •  He profusely begs for forgiveness, stating that he had sinned by castigating the king
    •  Both Shimei and David know that Shimei’s apology is out of fear and not sincerity
  • Seeking forgiveness for fear of consequences or because one is afraid or forced to do so is not genuine
  • Shimei declares that he is the 1st of the house of Joseph to greet David (not a Benjamite, but of Ephraim or Manasseh)
• Abishai’s ready sword
  • When Shimei had initially cursed David, Abishai wanted to lop off the “donkey’s” head
  • Again, Abishai offers to rid the kingdom of this dog
    •  Shimei had cursed the Lord’s anointed
    •  Shimei deserved to die
  • David stays Abishai’s hand
    •  David is again unwilling to execute justice
    •  This is a day of celebration; not death
  • Saul had made the same declaration after he defeated the Ammonites who threatened Jabesh-Gilead
  • David asks what he is to do with the sons of Zeruiah
    •  Joab had killed Abner and Absalom
    •  Abishai harps to take off people’s heads
    •  Asahel was killed by refusing to turn from Abner
    •  The sons of Zeruiah (David’s sister) were powerful and popular (too strong for David to move against)
  • David declares that being restored to his throne was cause for celebration and not judgment
• David makes a promise to Shimei
  • David had initially prevented Abishai from killing Shimei, saying, “who knows if God had not commanded Shimei to curse David this day?”
  • Now David swears to Shimei that he will not die
    •  It appears that Shimei’s danger had passed
    •  Shimei assumes that the king had forgiven him and had put the incident behind him
  • 2 Kings 2:8-9

• 8 “And see, you have with you Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite from Bahurim, who cursed me with a malicious curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim. But he came down to meet me at the Jordan, and I swore to him by the LORD, saying, ‘I will not put you to death with the sword.’ 9 Now therefore, do not hold him guiltless, for you are a wise man and know what you ought to do to him; but bring his gray hair down to the grave with blood.”

•  Twenty years later David tells Solomon to kill Shimei
  •  David had sworn the he would not kill Shimei, but he never stated that someone else would not do so
  • David apparently held a grudge against Shimei
    •  David had not forgiven Shimei at all
    •  David sought personal revenge against both Joab and Shimei
      •  David had not dealt with either man
      •  David makes Solomon his executioner
  • It is disappointing that David seems to have neither the capacity to judge properly or forgive totally
  • Effective leadership requires decisive proper actions

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CHURCH CARE.  I Thessalonians 5:14-15.  11/07/2021.  #15.

I Thessalonians 5:14-15 [New King James Version]

¹⁴ Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [b]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. ¹⁵ See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

1. Ministry of oversight
   1. Church leaders are to actually guide and mentor the saints
      1.  Neither to left alone to their own devices nor to micromanage their lives
      1.  There is a watchfulness and instruction of the flock
   1. Paul lists 3 types of individuals that require 3 different approaches to minister to them
      1.  The unruly are to be warned
      1.  The fainthearted are to be comforted
      1.  The weak are to be supported
   1. It takes discernment to know what approach should be taken with each individual
      1.  Not all people are the same (different natures require different tactics)
      1.  The patient ministering to others so that each believer can reach his or her full calling in Christ is the calling of the church leader
2. The unruly
   1. Paul lists the unruly first, for he is the most problematic
      1.  A disruptive person can do a lot of damage
      1.  Not only does the unruly shatter the peace of the body, but he also tarnishes the church’s testimony before the lost
   1. Paul exhorts (parakaleo, called alongside) the elders to do the job assigned to them
   1. Warn (lit., bring to mind) the unruly (disorderly)
      1.  Disorderly (unruly) is a military term, meaning not keeping rank (refusing to stay in formation)
      1.  The word implies insubordination and rebellion
   1. Disorderly people are either immature or full of pride
      1.  Paul dealt with many unruly people in Corinth
      1.  The rebellious cause problems in the body of Christ, causing the weak to stumble, discouraging the faithful, and driving away the seeker
   1. The elders were to remind the unruly of their calling and of their obligation before the Lord, other believers, and the lost
      1.  Disruption cannot continue in the assembly and the elders are responsible to deal with it (Ephesians 4:1-16)
      1.  The cause of unruliness is immaterial to stopping it (no matter what the excuse, the body must be protected from disturbances)
3. The Fainthearted
   1. Comfort (paramuthos, lit., near the mouth) – to console, to come close to someone in order to encourage them
   1. Fainthearted (lit., small souled) – one who is discouraged or downtrodden (not, feeble-minded at in KJV)
      1.  Many of us get discouraged at times
      1.  Paul states that we need to encourage each other
   1. Unlike warning the unruly, the discouraged needs comfort and encouragement (church = a support system)
4. The weak
   1. Uphold = to support (literally, to cling firmly to)
      1.  Some people need actual aid for awhile
      1.  Those who are unable to bear themselves up need help from the body of Christ to support them
   1. Weak (without strength) – this could be bodily, mental, or spiritual strength
      1.  I Corinthians 12:23 the weaker members deserve greater honor (shows Christ’s compassion through saints)
      1.  Those with deficiencies need greater care
   1. Leaders are to discern, admonish, comfort, support, and make sure they render goodness, nor returning evil

Key Verse: Ephesians 4:1-16¹ I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, ² with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, ³ endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. ⁴ There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; ⁵ one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. ⁷ But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift. ⁸ Therefore He says: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men.”  ⁹ (Now this, “He ascended”—what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? ¹⁰ He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.) ¹¹ And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, ¹² for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, ¹³ till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; ¹⁴ that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, ¹⁵ but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— ¹⁶ from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

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RETURN OF THE KING.  II Samuel 19:9-18.  11/07/2021.  #44.

2 Samuel 19:9-18 [New King James Version]

⁹ Now all the people were in a dispute throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, “The king saved us from the hand of our enemies, he delivered us from the hand of the Philistines, and now he has fled from the land because of Absalom. ¹⁰ But Absalom, whom we anointed over us, has died in battle. Now therefore, why do you say nothing about bringing back the king?” ¹¹ So King David sent to Zadok and Abiathar the priests, saying, “Speak to the elders of Judah, saying, ‘Why are you the last to bring the king back to his house, since the words of all Israel have come to the king, to his very house? ¹² You are my brethren, you are my bone and my flesh. Why then are you the last to bring back the king?’ ¹³ And say to Amasa, ‘Are you not my bone and my flesh? God do so to me, and more also, if you are not commander of the army before me [a]continually in place of Joab.’ ” ¹⁴ So he swayed the hearts of all the men of Judah, just as the heart of one man, so that they sent this word to the king: “Return, you and all your servants!” ¹⁵ Then the king returned and came to the Jordan. And Judah came to Gilgal, to go to meet the king, to escort the king across the Jordan. ¹⁶ And Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite, who was from Bahurim, hurried and came down with the men of Judah to meet King David. ¹⁷ There were a thousand men of Benjamin with him, and Ziba the servant of the house of Saul, and his fifteen sons and his twenty servants with him; and they went over the Jordan before the king. ¹⁸ Then a ferryboat went across to carry over the king’s household, and to do what he thought good.

1. A debate in Judah
   1. Judah had backed Absalom and put their hopes on him
      1.  Absalom had finessed his way into the hearts of the people by making grand promises
      1.  Since Absalom was dead, they had a problem
   1. The rest of Israel had mostly stayed with David
      1.  All of David’s family was with him
      1.  Judah is without a leader, but were also rebels
   1. Judah debated what to do
      1.  Since Absalom was dead, so was their cause
      1.  Having rebelled against David, there would be a fear of retribution
      1.  How could they bring David back after they had already rejected him?
      1.  There were no other candidates to put on the throne (all of David’s sons were with him)
   1. Some in Judah began to remember the good David did
      1.  David had protected Judah against their enemies
      1.  David had defeated Goliath and the Philistines
2. David initiates contact with the elders of Judah
   1. He sends a message to Amasa, asking why they have not sent for him to return to Jerusalem
      1.  All the other tribes were ready to bring David back
      1.  David was of the tribe of Judah (one of them)
      1.  David asks the priests to speak to the elders
   1. David sends an offer to incentivize General Amasa
      1.  David offers to make Amasa general over the entire army in the place of Joab
      1.  Even though Joab had defeated Amasa, he had also killed Absalom
      1.  Amasa goes from enemy leading a rebellious army to being offer command of the army he fought against (a unique proposition)
   1. There is strange politics afoot here
      1.  Joab had won the war, but was out of favor
      1.  Amasa had rebelled and lost the war, but was now favored and offered command like a reward
      1.  David’s personal concerns again drive state decisions (he punishes his son’s murderer by putting Joab’s enemy in his place)
3. David’s appeasement works
   1. Judah is relieved that David was not seeking revenge
      1.  David’s terms were more than generous
      1.  David sought no retribution at all
   1. David realized that Absalom had swayed Judah deceptively
   1. Judah’s elders eagerly accepted David’s terms
      1.  They had no other choice but David
      1.  Relieved that no additional penalties to pay
      1.  The elders invited David to return
   1. A triumphant celebratory procession forms
      1.  Shimei, who had cursed David, leads 1,000 Benjamites to greet him (Shimei fears revenge)
      1.  Ziba’s household marches with the king
      1.  A ferryboat is sent across the river to bring the entire royal family across to the west bank
   1. David’s decision is gracious, but lays the seed of more trouble, since he does not deal properly with Joab
   1. Slights are not forgotten, they just simmer

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THE HONORABLE LEADER.  I Thessalonians 5:12-13.  10/31/2021.  #14.

I Thessalonians 5:12-13 [New King James Version]

¹² And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, ¹³ and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.

1. Urgent admonitions
   1. Paul uses urge (beseech, admonish) when he wants to stress that something is vital to do or act upon
      1.  Romans 12:1 urges believers to be living sacrifices
      1.  I Corinthians 4:16 after chastising the Cor. for their selfish divisive immaturity, Paul urges them to imitate (mimic) him (mentor to apprentice)
      1.  II Corinthians 2:8 Paul urges the Cor. to receive and accept the repentant sinner and reaffirm their love to him
      1.  II Corinthians 6:1 Paul beseeches the Cor. not to receive the grace of God in vain (must evaluate if they are truly saved or not!)
      1.  II Corinthians 10:1-2 Paul urged the Cor. to submit to his authority since he was bringing God’s Word to them
   1. Paul begins as list of short poignant admonitions to instruct Thess. in proper behavior as he closes the letter
2. Honor your leaders
   1. Paul urges the Thess. to recognize (honor) those who  labor among and over them (church leadership)
      1.  Recognize = lit., to fully acknowledge (epignosko) by familiarity and appreciation
      1.  Fully give distinction and respect to leaders
   1. Godly leaders are a great benefit to the congregation
      1.  I Timothy 3:1-13 fully vetted faithfully serving leaders mentor, correct, and encourage growth in the lives of believers
      1.  Hebrews 13:7, 17 leaders must give an account for the souls of those they lead
         1.  Great responsibility to teach and train
         1.  Leaders counsel, support, correct, lift up in prayer, guide, and comfort the saints
   1. Paul wants the congregation to appreciate and encourage the deacons and elders who watch over their spiritual wellbeing
   1. Paul list 3 functions of the laborers:
      1.  Labor among you (shoulder the work of the Lord side by side with those in the congregation)
         1.  They are not elitist, letting everyone else work while they watch (Matthew 23; Luke 14)
         1.  They set the example as servants
      1.  Labor over you (appoint to direct the Lord’s work and safeguard the flock and ministry)
      1.  Admonish (to warn, challenge to obey)
3. The ministry of admonishment
   1. Human nature is such that we need to be prodded, motivated, and challenged to continue to serve
      1.  Galatians 6:7-10 we often slack off, become weary, and are distracted from our calling
      1.  Leaders are to stay motivated and then to motivate others to faithfulness
   1. Admonishment is a key aspect of advancing the kingdom
      1.  Hebrews 10:19-25 – we are to provoke one another to love and service
      1.  Colossians 1:28 Paul warned (admonished) every man so that he might present them mature in Christ
      1.  Colossians 3:16 admonish one another in psalms, songs, hymns, and spiritual psalms
      1.  Romans 15:14 admonish one another to be full of knowledge (of Christ) and goodness
   1. Admonishment is a difficult calling
      1.  Not an easy task to challenge others to do what is right or to correct others when they are wrong
      1.  Highly regard those who admonish you for the Lord’s sake; love the work that they do for good
   1. Those who obey godly leaders will be at peace (blessed)

Key verse: Hebrews 10:19-25¹⁹ Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, ²⁰ by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, ²¹ and having a High Priest over the house of God, ²² let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. ²³ Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. ²⁴ And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, ²⁵ not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

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VICTORY and REGRET.  II Samuel 19:1-8.  10/31/2021.  #43.

II Samuel 19:1-8 [New King James Version]

¹ And Joab was told, “Behold, the king is weeping and mourning for Absalom.” ² So the victory that day was turned into mourning for all the people. For the people heard it said that day, “The king is grieved for his son.” ³ And the people stole back into the city that day, as people who are ashamed steal away when they flee in battle. ⁴ But the king covered his face, and the king cried out with a loud voice, “O my son Absalom! O Absalom, my son, my son!” ⁵ Then Joab came into the house to the king, and said, “Today you have disgraced all your servants who today have saved your life, the lives of your sons and daughters, the lives of your wives and the lives of your concubines, ⁶ in that you love your enemies and hate your friends. For you have declared today that you regard neither princes nor servants; for today I perceive that if Absalom had lived and all of us had died today, then it would have pleased you well. ⁷ Now therefore, arise, go out and speak comfort to your servants. For I swear by the Lord, if you do not go out, not one will stay with you this night. And that will be worse for you than all the evil that has befallen you from your youth until now.” ⁸ Then the king arose and sat in the gate. And they told all the people, saying, “There is the king, sitting in the gate.” So all the people came before the king. For everyone of Israel had fled to his tent.

1. Triumph and tears
   1. Soldiers return in triumph only to find the king mourning
      1.  The army is ready to celebrate with the king
      1.  They hear David mourning the death of his son
   1. What should have been a time of joy had become bitter
      1.  David wanted it both ways = a victory + his son
      1.  David stresses the loss of his son and does not even bother to thank his army for their efforts
   1. The soldiers don’t know what to do
      1.  They become quiet, embarrassed, and even rebuked
      1.  As if they had sin grievously or lost the battle
      1.  They slink back to their tents in shame
2. Joab’s scolding
   1. Joab enters the king’s room and scolds him
      1.  Only Joab could get by with this
      1.  He does not mince words
   1. Joab points out several poignant facts and observations:
      1.  David treated his enemies better than his friends
      1.  David would have been more pleased if all the soldiers had died, but Absalom had lived
      1.  David had put the army to shame
         1.  Acted as if they had done evil
         1.  Treated army as guilty for saving him
      1.  David’s soldiers had saved David’s life, the life of his wives and concubines, and his children at the extreme risks of their own lives
   1. Joab sternly admonishes David
      1.  The king needed to go before his men to encourage (lit., give heart to) them
         1.  They were exultant and now are despondent 
         1.  Does the king care that we saved his life?
      1.  If David does not console, congratulate, and show appreciation to his troops, they will all leave him
         1.  It is discouraging to help someone who neither wants the help nor appreciates it
         1.  Doing right is its own reward, but appreciation encourages the doer of it
      1.  If David leaves the impression that his son is more valuable than all of Israel and the rest of his household, no one will be motivated to serve him
   1. 3 key principles of leadership:
      1.  Having the right priorities (holiness vs. family)
      1.  Encouraging those who serve under you
      1.  Showing appreciation for positive effort
3. David takes his seat
   1. David realizes the wisdom of what Joab says
      1.  He had not been thinking of his men at all
      1.  David had not considered the rest of his family
   1. David sets up a makeshift throne in the gate and sits down
      1.  Slowly, word is spread among the troops
      1.  The army begins to gather before David to hear what the king has to say to them
   1. David has a lot to repair
      1.  His behavior was very odious to his men
      1.  David did not have the proper perspective
   1. David had to represent God about all else, putting away all other considerations

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WRATH WAIVER.  I Thessalonians 5:9-11.  10/24/2021.  #13.

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 [New King James Version]

⁹ For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, ¹⁰ who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. ¹¹ Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.

1. The next event
   1. Paul continues answering the question from chapter 4 – what happens to the dead in Christ?
   1. Three great facts about the dead in Christ:
      1.  II Chronicles 5:8 they are immediately with the Lord
      1.  Hebrews 4:10-11 they enter into their rest from labor, pain, temptation, trials, and worldly concerns
      1.  I Corinthians 15:12-26 they await their glorification at the return of Christ for his church (Romans 8:29-30)
   1. The Reformers did not exegete Revelation, finding is confusing and full of odd imagery
   1. Several schemes about the End Times have developed:
      1.  A-millennialism  – there is no Great Tribulation or Millennial Reign of Christ (things will just end after Christ defeats the Antichrist)
      1.  Post-millennialism – the church will go through the Tribulation or the Tribulation is merely symbolic of the entire church age and then the church will triumph, setting the stage for Christ’s return
         1.  Dominion Theology – the church will exercise dominion over the earth (a typical Pentecostal approach)
         1.  Dom. Theol. songs = Rise Up, O, Men of God, The Holy City, Majesty
      1.  Pre-millennialism – the church will be raptured before the Tribulation and return with Lord at its end
         1.  Pre-Trib. = raptured before the Trib. starts (we have no part in Trib.)
         1.  Mid-Trib. = the church goes through 1st half of Trib. (Period of False Peace) and is raptured before the Seals are opened)
   1. Paul emphasizes that the church will not be the recipients of God’s wrath (either now or in eternity)
      1.  As God pours out his wrath upon the earth, the church is not on the earth
      1.  Only those who come to Christ during Trib. will experience the Great Tribulation (many martyred)
      1.  I Thessalonians 4:17-18 the living are raptured after the elect deceased (“we which are alive…”), so what the church awaits is Christ’s return for her, not wrath poured upon the earth by God
      1.  I Corinthians 15:50-54 – elect will be changed at the last trump when we will meet the Lord in the air,  The promise of the Lord is a victorious exit; not a wrathful end from punitive judgment
2. Temporal state is immaterial
   1. Paul states that it does not matter if a believer is alive or deceased since all are glorified in the Lord
      1.  Whether a believer died young or lived a long life does not matter in eternity
      1.  If someone comes to Christ as a child or as an elderly person is immaterial to salvation status
   1. There are no second class saints in heaven
      1.  The only distinction is the kind and amount of the rewards among the saints (II Timothy 2:19-21)
      1.  The Lord judges our works based upon what he has given to us (Matthew 25, I Corinthians 3:11-15, Romans 12:4-6, Luke 12:48)
3. Comfort, hope, and encouragement of the promise
   1. The Lord gives us End Times details as an encouragement, motivation, and info to warn the lost
   1. The comfort of the return supersedes the pains of life
   1. Philippians 3:14 call for pressing-to-the-mark believers

Key verse:  I Corinthians 15:12-26

¹² Now if Christ is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? ¹³ But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen. ¹⁴ And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty. ¹⁵ Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ, whom He did not raise up—if in fact the dead do not rise. ¹⁶ For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. ¹⁷ And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! ¹⁸ Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. ¹⁹ If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable. ²⁰ But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. ²¹ For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. ²² For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. ²³ But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming. ²⁴ Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. ²⁵ For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. ²⁶ The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.

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DAVID’S AGONY.  II Samuel 18:19-33.  10/24/2021.  #42.

2 Samuel 18:19-33 [New King James Version]

¹⁹ Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said, “Let me run now and take the news to the king, how the Lord has avenged him of his enemies.” ²⁰ And Joab said to him, “You shall not take the news this day, for you shall take the news another day. But today you shall take no news, because the king’s son is dead.” 21 Then Joab said to the Cushite, “Go, tell the king what you have seen.” So the Cushite bowed himself to Joab and ran. ²² And Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said again to Joab, “But whatever happens, please let me also run after the Cushite.” So Joab said, “Why will you run, my son, since you have no news ready?” ²³ “But whatever happens,” he said, “let me run.” So he said to him, “Run.” Then Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain, and outran the Cushite. ²⁴ Now David was sitting between the two gates. And the watchman went up to the roof over the gate, to the wall, lifted his eyes and looked, and there was a man, running alone. ²⁵ Then the watchman cried out and told the king. And the king said, “If he is alone, there is news in his mouth.” And he came rapidly and drew near. ²⁶ Then the watchman saw another man running, and the watchman called to the gatekeeper and said, “There is another man, running alone!” And the king said, “He also brings news.” ²⁷ So the watchman said, “I think the running of the first is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok.” And the king said, “He is a good man, and comes with good news.” ²⁸ So Ahimaaz called out and said to the king, “All is well!” Then he bowed down with his face to the earth before the king, and said, “Blessed be the Lord your God, who has delivered up the men who raised their hand against my lord the king!” ²⁹ The king said, “Is the young man Absalom safe?” Ahimaaz answered, “When Joab sent the king’s servant and me your servant, I saw a great tumult, but I did not know what it was about.” ³⁰ And the king said, “Turn aside and stand here.” So he turned aside and stood still. ³¹ Just then the Cushite came, and the Cushite said, “There is good news, my lord the king! For the Lord has avenged you this day of all those who rose against you.” ³² And the king said to the Cushite, “Is the young man Absalom safe?” So the Cushite answered, “May the enemies of my lord the king, and all who rise against you to do harm, be like that young man!” ³³ Then the king was deeply moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept. And as he went, he said thus: “O my son Absalom—my son, my son Absalom—if only I had died in your place! O Absalom my son, my son!”

1. David awaits news
   1. David is back in the city awaiting news of the battle
   1. David had no idea how his forces are doing
   1. David is concerned about his son, even though men were dying to save David from the attacks from his son
2. The messengers and the messages
   1. Ahimaaz, son of the High Priest, Zadok, wants to run
      1.  Ah. had been the messenger from Zadok to David when Hushai would pass on info
      1.  He wanted to bring the great news to David
   1. Joab forbids Ahimaaz to run
      1.  Death of Absalom = not good news to David
      1.  David was more concerned about the welfare of Absalom than of his soldiers
      1.  Joab obviously likes Ahimaaz, so spares him
   1. Joab sends a Cushite (Ethiopian) with the news
   1. Ahimaaz still bugs Joab to go
      1.  He had no further news to relate to David
      1.  He still wants to go to David, so Joab sends him
   1. The Cushite runs the shortest route via the hills
   1. Ahimaaz takes the longer, but easier, route via the plains
      1.  Ahimaaz outruns the Cushite
      1.  Since Ahimaaz is a “good man” David assumes that the news also is good
   1. Ahimaaz announces the great victory
      1.  Instead of rejoicing over the victory the Lord had given him, David immediately inquires of his son
      1.  Ahimaaz states that he heard a great tumult, but did not know what it was about (he either feigns that he does not know or is unaware—he knew!)
   1. The lookout spots the Cushite
      1.  The Cushite declares that the king has had vengeance on his enemies this day
      1.  Again, David does not rejoice, but asked of his son
   1. The Cushite’s answer to David was wise and insightful
      1.  May all of David’s enemies who oppose him be like that young man
      1.  He reminds David that Absalom was his enemy, the opposition, sought to do David harm, rebel, a “young man”
      1.  He reminds David of all the evil Absalom did
3. David mourns
   1. Instead of rejoicing at the victory, David mourns his son
   1. By stating that he would have rather died instead of Absalom, he insults his soldiers by indicating their sacrifice was neither appreciated or honored
   1. David has a real blind spot when it comes to his son
      1.  The laws of the kingdom must apply to his family as it does everyone else’s family
      1.  David mourns the loss of his son in a way that puts Absalom above all of David’s loyal subjects
   1. Proper perspective is that we honor the Lord more than anything else
      1.  Leviticus 10 Aaron was not to mourn loss of his 2 sons
      1.  Matthew 10:37 to honor parents above Lord, one is not worthy of the Lord
      1.  Eli honored sons above honoring God